Discussing circumcision with husband

Hi everyone. I'm currently expecting a boy. My husband and I already have a daughter. When I was pregnant first time around, the question of circumcision came up during ante-natal classes and in the pregnancy books I was given. My husband, who is circumcised himself,expressed the view that if we had a boy, he would definitely be circumcised too. I was horrified about this, as I think it's completely unnecessary and I know it's uncommon for boys in NZ these days.

Unfortunately, I was never able to change his mind about it, and I'm dreading the conversation coming up again. To complicate matters, his sister recently had a little boy, and she had him circumcised. His mother made some comments to me when we were talking about it to the effect that she can't believe some mothers don't go ahead with it.

I have done quite a bit of research on the topic, and my thinking is settled on it. I really don't want it done to my son. I don't think my husband would insist on it if I really 'put my foot down', but I don't want it to be an issue between us, and I hope I'm not being unreasonable.

I wondered how other mums with circumcised partners/husbands have dealt with this issue? Does anyone have advice in terms of discussing this issue?

I am in a similar position to you so will be interested to see the replies.   We don't know what we are having but had a brief discussion about it recently.   I don't want to and hubby does.   He ended up having to have it done as an adult and it was a painful recovery.    I need to do further research on the subject and I guess a more thorough discussion once baby arrives if need be.

What is his reason for wanting it done? My understanding is that historically it was done for hygiene purposes?

I completely agree there is no need to be circumcised for hygiene reasons. Last time we discussed this, my husband gave me a whole raft of reasons for wanting it done, but i think it probably comes down to him wanting our son to look the same as him, which i think is ridiculous. There seems to be a 'family tradition' element to it as well. I'm not really sure how to deal with this sort of logic...

I am not sure how common it is and it was some time ago but his foreskin tightened and circumcision was his only option.   It's so uncommon to have it done these day I wonder how easy it will be to find a dr to do it.     My DH said he thought it was important that he and his son looked the same but the flip side of that is there is a high chance he will then look different to his peers and that could cause more issues for him in the long run.    DH can have a conversation and explain the reason for the difference if the need arises.

Easier just to have a girl!!!!